The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced the acquittal and release of three Nigerian women—Hadiza Abba, Fatima Umate Malah, and Fatima Kannai Gamboi—who were detained for 10 months in Saudi Arabia on drug trafficking charges.
The women were arrested on March 5, 2024, at Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah. Their arrest followed the apprehension of two Nigerian nationals found with over 1.6 kilograms of cocaine, leading to suspicions that the women were accomplices.
In a statement issued by the Acting Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the government confirmed that the women endured months of legal proceedings that attracted significant attention in both Saudi Arabia and Nigeria.
The trio’s eventual acquittal came as a result of persistent diplomatic and legal interventions by the Nigerian government. They have since been handed over to Nigeria’s Consulate-General in Jeddah, where Ambassador Muazam Nayaya and his team are facilitating their immigration procedures to ensure a swift return home.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs lauded the collaborative efforts between Nigerian authorities and their Saudi counterparts that led to the women’s release. The Ministry also reaffirmed Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the rights and welfare of its citizens abroad.
This development underscores the Federal Government’s resolve in providing consular support to Nigerians in distress, ensuring justice, and promoting diplomatic ties.
